Direct Relief is hiring: Graphic Designer in Santa Barbara

Base pay range

$72,000.00/yr - $82,000.00/yr

About us

Direct Relief is a medical aid nonprofit, active in all 50 states and more than 80 countries, with a mission to improve the health and lives of people affected by poverty or emergencies – without regard to politics, religion, or ability to pay.

Since its founding in 1948 by refugees of WWII, Direct Relief has grown to become one of the country's most effective humanitarian assistance organizations. Its work earns broad recognition from independent charity rating agencies, including a 100% fundraising efficiency rating from Forbes, a top ranking by Charity Navigator, and a spot in Fast Company’s list of “the world’s most innovative nonprofits.” Direct Relief’s impact throughout the world is the result of its dedicated and compassionate people, each of whom plays a critical role in advancing the organization’s mission.

Summary

The Graphic Designer executes Direct Relief’s brand vision and manages projects from concept to completion, ensuring that project deliverables are completed on time and within budget. This role is responsible for designing a wide range of print and digital assets that reflect our brand, support storytelling, and engage audiences. The ideal candidate has strong visual design skills, a strategic mindset, and a passion for using design to drive social impact.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Develop and execute design solutions for:
• Reports, brochures, toolkits, one-pagers, and presentations
• Social media graphics, web banners, and email visuals
• Event collateral such as signage, backdrops, invitations, and name badges
• Infographics, diagrams, and data visualizations that simplify complex information
• Ensure all creative output is aligned with the organization’s visual identity, tone, and accessibility standards
• Collaborate with teams across communications, programs, fundraising, and leadership
• Participate in creative planning meetings and contribute ideas for visual storytelling
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast‑paced environment, balancing short turnaround tasks with longer‑term assignments
• Prepare and package files for production, print, and digital use—ensuring all final assets are optimized, accurate, and archived properly
• Photo edit collections of field photos and optimize photography where appropriate
• Support brand development and consistency across all public‑facing assets
• Help develop engaging short‑form video to promote Direct Relief through social media platforms and the website
• Edit and optimize graphics and video content for social media platforms
• Archive and organize graphic assets including past projects, logo assets, and photo albums

Desired Qualifications

• 3–5 years of professional design experience and/or Bachelor's degree in design, marketing, or related field
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop)
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly PowerPoint
• Strong layout, typography, and visual storytelling skills
• Experience designing for both print and digital platforms
• Excellent attention to detail and project management skills
• Ability to collaborate with multiple teams and manage feedback effectively
• Familiarity with accessibility principles and inclusive design
• Experience with motion graphics and video editing
• Basic knowledge of HTML/CSS and CMS platforms, particularly WordPress
• Experience working with brand systems and templates
• Interest in global development, public health, education, or related fields
• Experience in development, objective setting and performance management
• Puts brand values at the heart of the design development process

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary range: $72,000-$82,000, salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.
• Medical insurance covered by employer at 100% cost for employee
• Dental and Vision insurance covered by employer at 100% cost for employee
• Retirement Plan, employer matches up to 6%

Seniority level

Not Applicable

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Design

Industries

Non‑profit Organizations